Cape Town - The old days of fashion are back.
Elegant vintage silhouettes of the ’60s and ’70s are dominating international and local runways as the biggest trends for autumn and winter. From Bohemian chic to the layered hippie look, designers are taking a trip back in time, to the romantic era of fashion that expressed one’s individuality.
Psychedelic prints, above-the-knee dresses and skirts, wide-legged pants and pussycat bow shirts are some of the must-have items. The silhouettes are form-fitting and feminine with a diversity in fabrics and trimmings, such as knit, silk, suede, tweed and leather.
At the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Joburg, held at the Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton at the weekend, these trends were dominant. We decode some of those seen on the runway.
Earth Tones
It’s all about earthy hues that will go with just about everything in your wardrobe. From various shades of sunflower yellow, sand hues, olive green, shades of blue, greys and antique red, these colours are timeless and sophisticated. Afro-politan label Mille Collines’s collection, inspired by curio shops found throughout Africa, featured pastel colours in separates of wide-legged pants, tailored dresses and skirts, as well as flowing, printed tunics and kimonos.
The styling included bold, statement jewellery and accessories of the same colour tones.
Minimalism
Simplicity in design and synthetic fabrics that follow the shape of one’s body can emphasise femininity and poise.
Fashion designer David Tlale is best-known for simple yet dramatic designs that celebrate this. His fashion story of tweed, black and red lace was the epitome of elegance. The forms were perfectly tailored dresses in mermaid and A-line shapes, and high-waisted pants. The styling was clean, proving that less is still more.
Fringes and tassels
The playful trend of tumbling tassels and flirtatious fringes that bounce are decorating clothing, shoes and bags, and make for the perfect glamorous Bohemian style. This trend can work for the office and for a night out as well.
Denim
Denim is always in fashion. Available in a variety of designs and colour washes, denim clothing has always been inextricably linked to workwear and leisure time for both men and women. The trendy options include denim dungarees, culottes, vests, jackets or a sartorial take on the Canadian tuxedo.
Futuristic
When it comes to fashion, the world is constantly looking to the future, which is why a number of shiny textures and fabrics have entered the market. The modern day fabrics include vinyl and PVC in colours such as silver, bronze and gold, in straight and comfortable lines. Tamara Cherie’s ready-to-wear collection, titled “Dusk to Dawn” featured a wealth of textures – from luxurious woven wools to sequinned and pleated silks. The tailored coats and full-length jumpsuits ventured outside the norms of a winter range.
Funky accessories
A printed scarf worn around the neck or as a turban will make you look like a nubian queen. Don’t be shy to accessorise with chunky wooden bangles and overly dramatic eyewear.
The layered hippie look
From wearing a dress or skirt over jeans, to throwing together random things in different textures, patterns and materials to produce a distressed but creative look is a trend that can be fashioned to reflect your personality. The busier the outfit the cooler it looks.
Midi and maxi lengths
Flowing maxi dresses and skirts come in a variety of styles and fabrics and can be worn up or down. The big trends are matching sets of pants or skirts paired with matching jackets. This look requires little styling.
A classic brooch or a pin on the jacket or a pearl necklace is all you need.
Nontando Mposo, Cape Argus